Program Types: Resources, Trans-Specific,

Kyle Scanlon (September 5, 1971 – July 3, 2012) was a well-loved and respected part of Toronto’s trans communities. He was an activist who sought to change the lives of his community for the better. He broke ground by becoming the first trans man to be executive director of a queer organization, Youthline. He worked for Pink Triangle Press and wrote articles in publications like Xtra and fab magazine. He also worked at The 519 for over a decade and was one of the founding members of Trans Access – one of the first education programs of it is kind, focusing specifically on the needs of trans communities.

Kyle was a founding member of Trans PULSE – a team of researchers who were dedicated to demonstrating that research can be done by and for trans communities in positive ways. He was also a member of the AIDS Bureau, Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care’s Gay/Bi/Queer/Trans Men’s Working Group, and was a Co-Investigator on studies focusing on the sexual health needs of trans men. He traveled the world to explore life and was an animal lover who cherished the nature of animals. His cats provided him with much joy.

Kyle was known for his generous and kind nature, and smile. The impacts he made on our community continue today, and we still miss him.

The Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund will be given out annually and is proud to provide funding to community programs and initiatives that focus on bettering the lives of trans communities.

This fund has been set up by The 519 and his family to commemorate all that he did, and everything he stood for.

The Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund was established to memorialize the sudden passing of Kyle Scanlon, a long-time staff member of The 519, who worked closely with 2 Spirit, trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities to support and advance trans inclusion.

The 2024-2025 Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund will award a total of $5,000.00 to either one project or a number of projects based in Ontario or Nunavut that support and/or advocate for the improvement of the quality of life for 2 Spirit, trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities.

Over the past few years, as many social disparities have become more apparent, community-led efforts to challenge racism, anti-Black racism and systemic injustices have also risen in both prominence and impact. In support of this important work, The Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund will prioritize projects and people supporting Black and Indigenous communities across Ontario and Nunavut. The Fund committee will also prioritize projects based in rural communities that respond to community needs.

Projects can be submitted for the full amount or any amount under that.

Goals/Objectives of the Fund

The following fund parameters have been established to guide the use of these funds:

  • Commemorate Kyle and his contribution to 2 Spirit, trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities and The 519
  • Address issues that impact 2 Spirit, trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities including promoting advocacy initiatives
  • Fund specific programs and/or time-limited projects that support the improvement of the quality of life for 2 Spirit, trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities

Application Deadline: December 1st, 2024 by 11pm

Submit completed application using this link: https://the519.jotform.com/team/kyle-scanlon-fund/kyle-scanlon

Questions? E-mail: RHooton@The519.org

Grant Support Conversation

Are you interested in applying but need more information? Have an idea but not sure how best to explain it? Contact Rebecca at RHooton@The519.org

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do we need to write interim and final reports?

Depending on the length of your project, you may only need to write a final report. Reports should include up-dates regarding revised timelines and remaining budget requirements. The Final report will outline impact and evaluation of project (i.e., numbers of those in attendance and formal feedback). The final report is a required part of receiving the grants. We will also ask for testimonials.

What should your timeline look like?

Your project should aim to wrap up by December 2025.

What types of projects will be considered?

Ideas for projects and initiatives:

  • Community-led events with a focus for 2 Spirit, trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities (film festivals, movie nights, swim nights, clothing swaps)
  • Workshops to increase access and knowledge around technology
  • Enhancing existing community-based programs (ensuring programs can offer food, bringing in special guest speakers)
  • Art projects (creating community zines, community art projects)

Examples of things we cannot fund:

  • Fundraisers
  • Individual’s salaries to run programming
  • Personal expenses (such as costs related to transitioning)

Who can apply for the fund?

Anyone who works with 2 Spirit, trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities is welcome to apply. Projects and initiatives which are led by 2 Spirit, trans, non-binary or gender-diverse people will be given special consideration.

How do you decide which applications are successful?

The 519 has created a fund committee consisting of two staff members, a family member of Kyle’s, and a community member. Every year the fund committee creates an outline which pinpoints the key things we will be looking for. Some things to consider are:

  • Does the project or initiative support members of2 Spirit, trans, non-binary and gender-diverse communities?
  • How does the project or initiative include members of other marginalized communities?
  • How does your project support Black communities? How does it address anti-Black racism?
  • How does your project support 2 Spirit communities? How does it address Indigenous solidarity?
  • Who is the project or initiative available to?
  • Are the timeline and budget realistic?

Do I need to be part of an organization or can I be independent?

Due to issues with dispersing funds, we would rather you be connected to an organization or have an organization that can act as trustee. However, if you have an idea, let us know and we will see what we can do!

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Kyle Scanlon Memorial Fund: Impact Story